🛒 Ingredients
- 🥒 1 large cucumber, diced
- 🍅 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or 3 medium tomatoes, chopped)
- 🧅 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 🫒 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 🧀 1 cup feta cheese, cubed or crumbled
- 🌶️ 1 small green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 🌿 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 🍋 3 tbsp olive oil
- 🍋 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 🌿 1 tsp dried oregano
- 🧂 1/2 tsp salt
- 🌶️ 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 🍋 Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional for extra zest)
🍳 Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop the Ingredients:
- Dice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes or chop medium tomatoes.
- Thinly slice the red onion and green bell pepper. Halve the Kalamata olives.
- Combine in a Bowl:
- In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, green bell pepper, olives, and parsley.
Make the Dressing
- Mix the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice (if using).
- Taste and Adjust:
- Adjust salt or vinegar to suit your preference.
Assemble the Salad
- Add the Feta:
- Gently add the cubed or crumbled feta cheese to the salad bowl.
- Drizzle the Dressing:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine without breaking the feta.
Serve
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and an extra pinch of oregano. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
💡 Tips and Variations
- 🫛 Add Protein: Top the salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a complete meal.
- 🥑 Avocado Twist: Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
- 🌶️ Spicy Option: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
- 🍋 Vinegar Swap: Substitute red wine vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a slightly sweeter flavor.
- 🧊 Make Ahead: Chop the vegetables and prepare the dressing separately; combine just before serving to keep everything crisp.
🍹 Serving Suggestions
This Greek Salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats like lamb, chicken, or beef. It’s also a refreshing side for roasted vegetables, pita bread, hummus, or stuffed grape leaves. For a light lunch, serve alongside a bowl of lentil soup or a slice of crusty bread.
What Makes This Recipe Special
The Greek Salad is a timeless Mediterranean dish known for its vibrant colors, fresh vegetables, and tangy feta cheese. It’s simple, nutritious, and bursting with flavor, making it the perfect addition to summer gatherings, dinner parties, or weeknight meals.
